COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Public Policy (MPP) at DePaul University is a comprehensive graduate program that combines core policy coursework, analytical training, and elective study to prepare students for careers in public service, government, and nonprofit leadership. The curriculum requires a total of 52 quarter credit hours, made up of ten core courses (40 credit hours) and three electives (12 credit hours), giving students both a strong foundation in public policy fundamentals and the flexibility to tailor part of their studies to specific interests. Core coursework includes classes such as foundations of public service, applied statistics for public service using tools like Excel or SPSS, economic foundations of public service, policy design and analysis, policy implementation, advocacy and lobbying, law and public policy, and research methods for public service, culminating in an integrative seminar that ties together key concepts from across the program. These courses develop skills in quantitative and qualitative analysis, ethical leadership, economic reasoning, and effective communication, enabling students to analyze complex policy issues and design solutions that balance social equity, political accountability, and economic efficiency. In addition to the core, students choose three elective courses that allow further specialization, with options spanning public service management, local government administration, sustainable international development, emergency management and planning, metropolitan planning, poverty and inequality policy, housing and community development, urban resilience and climate adaptation policy, and other areas relevant to public policy practice. The curriculum emphasizes both applied learning and ethical engagement, encouraging students to consider the needs of marginalized communities, advocate for the common good, and implement policies that promote justice, transparency, and accountability. Through this combination of rigorous coursework, practical analytical training, and elective exploration, the MPP curriculum equips graduates with the knowledge and tools necessary to advance public policy goals and lead effectively in diverse public service contexts.